Netflix’s latest British miniseries, Adolescence, has captivated audiences and critics alike with its unflinching exploration of contemporary societal issues. Co-created by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham, who also stars as Eddie Miller, father to the central character, the series follows the harrowing journey of 13-year-old Jamie Miller, portrayed by newcomer Owen Cooper. Jamie’s arrest for the murder of his schoolmate, Katie Leonard, serves as the catalyst for a profound examination of toxic masculinity, the pervasive influence of social media, and the challenges of modern boyhood.
One of the most striking aspects of Adolescence is its technical execution, particularly the use of continuous one-shot filming, directed by Philip Barantini. This technique immerses viewers in real-time events, heightening the emotional intensity and providing an unfiltered glimpse into the characters’ experiences.
The opening sequence, depicting Jamie’s arrest, is particularly gripping, setting a tone of urgency and realism that persists throughout the four episodes. While the officers drag him out of bed, the camera lingers uncomfortably on Jamie’s face, half-asleep, disoriented, and utterly terrified. The shaky, intimate cinematography places the audience in the middle of the chaos, capturing the raw emotions of his parents, Eddie and Lisa (Jodie McNee), as they struggle to comprehend what’s happening. The absence of a traditional musical score heightens the realism, making the scene feel almost documentary-like in its execution.
Critics have lauded the series for its nuanced storytelling and compelling performances. The Guardian hailed it as “the closest thing to TV perfection in decades“, praising its naturalistic script and the depth of its character portrayals. Cooper’s debut performance as Jamie has been especially commended for capturing the vulnerability and complexity of a young boy ensnared by harmful online influences. Likewise, Graham delivers a powerful performance as Jamie’s conflicted father, struggling to understand his son while grappling with his own past mistakes.
In one of the most emotionally charged moments, Eddie confronts Jamie about the crime, struggling to understand how his son could have done something so horrific. This scene is notable for its use of silence, featuring long pauses where words fail them both, and where Eddie does speak, Graham’s performance sees his voice crack under the weight of guilt and helplessness. The writing subtly hints at generational cycles of toxic masculinity: Eddie, a product of an era where emotional suppression was the norm, is forced to reckon with the consequences of failing to intervene in Jamie’s life sooner. Instead of shouting or demanding answers, he simply asks, “What happened, son?”, a simple yet devastating question that Jamie cannot answer.
Another standout moment in the series is Jamie’s interrogation at the police station, where he faces clinical psychologist Briony Ariston (Erin Doherty). This scene, almost entirely dialogue-driven, serves as a psychological chess match between the two. Jamie initially responds with indifference, offering vague or dismissive answers, mirroring the detached personas often cultivated in toxic online spaces. However, as Briony carefully peels back his defences, subtle cracks in his composure begin to show. The scene is tightly framed, keeping the focus on Jamie’s shifting expressions — flashes of anger, confusion, and vulnerability — hinting at a young boy struggling to reconcile his actions with his self-image.
Beyond being a gripping crime drama, Adolescence serves as a societal mirror, reflecting the alarming rise of misogynistic online cultures and their real-world ramifications. In addressing these issues, the series raises critical questions about the roles of parents, educational institutions, and technology companies. It highlights the dangerous echo chambers that push impressionable boys toward extremist ideologies under the guise of empowerment. Beyond the digital world, the series also critiques the systemic failures of education, parenting, and social institutions in recognizing and addressing these issues before they escalate.
Jamie’s story resonates in a world where real-life cases of teenage violence and radicalization are becoming increasingly common, making Adolescence not just a gripping drama but a stark warning about the vulnerabilities of an entire generation. It underscores the necessity for open dialogues and proactive measures to guide young boys through the challenges of growing up in a digital age.
However, the series has not been without controversy. Some viewers have expressed concerns about its portrayal of violence and the potential oversimplification of complex issues. While some see it as a necessary wake-up call highlighting the impact of toxic online communities, others argue that it may inadvertently shift focus away from deeper, systemic societal problems. The debate surrounding the series has sparked larger conversations about how media portrays young perpetrators of violence, and whether such narratives help or hinder efforts to combat gender-based harm.
Adolescence stands out as a poignant and thought-provoking drama that challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about modern society. Its masterful storytelling, combined with stellar performances and innovative cinematography, makes it a significant addition to contemporary television. Whether seen as a necessary critique of online radicalization or a problematic dramatization of youth crime, the series undoubtedly fosters essential conversations about the influences shaping today’s generation.
